Undergraduate Voices: Studying Abroad at Berklee Valencia

Kayla Resnisky

Major: Independent Recording and Production (IRP)

Minor: Music Business

Semester: 4th

Semester Abroad: Spring 2025

"That was a really good moment for me and my artistry. It just brought my music to the next level."

Kayla Resnisky on performing at un lago de conciertos

What made you decide to study abroad at Berklee Valencia?

I wanted to study abroad because I’d never been out of the United States before and I wanted to travel and experience living in another country. The program offered all of my classes, it fit into my academic schedule and, on top of that, it was cheaper. So I thought, why not?

What kinds of classes did you take? 

I took a lot of the core classes, such as Tonal Harmony & Composition 1, Ear Training 4 and Harmony 4. I also took this class called Piano-Accompanying Techniques for Vocalists, which was really great because it made me practice playing piano while also singing, which is something I don’t normally do back in Boston. I really wanted to take this class called Live Electronic Performance and DJ Skills. I couldn’t fit it into my schedule, but my friends loved it.

What performance opportunities have stood out to you during your time here?

When I came here, I had the misconception that there wouldn’t be a lot of performance opportunities, but there are actually lots. One of my fondest memories was performing at Un Lago de Conciertos because it was my first time ever performing my original music with a full band. I feel like that was a really good moment for me and my artistry. It just brought my music to the next level.

There’s also lots of live music off-campus. For example, I just performed at the renowned Radio City with my band. So I’ve been pleasantly surprised.

What’s something unique about Berklee Valencia? 

One thing I loved was the studio access that’s given to all students here. It was really freeing for me as a producer and artist, and I got to work on all sorts of music. You produce your own music but then you can produce for others, too, which has really made me grow in other genres. It’s helped me create such a solid foundation for my own sound as an artist.

I also like that the campus is smaller than in Boston—it’s a real community-based environment. You get to know everyone really fast, and I’ve made some great connections with master’s students and even students from Boston who I had just never met before. You see everyone every day and I’ve made some really good friendships.

What was life in Valencia like, outside the classroom?

Some of the best aspects of being in Valencia are definitely the beach and the weather. Also, having the opportunity to explore Spain and Europe. Everything is so close and it’s so cheap to travel. It’s been amazing.

Getting over the language barrier was a challenge, but language apps were my best friend. I made sure to go outside and just talk to the local people, really put myself out there. After a while, I could order in Spanish, I could talk to my taxi driver a little. It really made me feel accomplished.

What would you say to someone who is considering studying abroad?

Do it! I was on the fence at first, thinking I was pausing my life back in Boston. But now if I could have stayed another semester, I would have. I definitely recommend it. 

I would also say: it’s okay to be uncomfortable, it’s okay to miss home. You have such an amazing community at Berklee Valencia and the staff and teachers are great. You’re going to love it!